A Mediaeval Morning with James Adams

Tuesday, October 7, Annie Wyatt Room, National Trust Centre, 10.30am

James Adams is a well known authority on mediaeval life whose wit brings to life the social  mores of mediaevil times and the reality of the battle fuield. His talk is embellished by a wonderful array of props which included armour, weapons, clothing, utensils and punishment implements. In demonstrating their use he will make this fascinating period of history come alive.

Bookings: Ticket Application Sheet

Cost: $25

Cabraet and Trivia Dinner Dance

Saturday, October 4, Gladesville RSL & Community Club Main Auditorium, 4-6 Linsley Street, 7.30pm-11.30pm

Join the After Hours Committee for trivia, dinner and dancing at their rock & roll night. Acclaimed live cover band 'Fab Two' will perform. Lucky door and mystery prizes to be won. Buffet meal included, full bar available (at own cost).

Bookings: Ticket Application Sheet

P: Tony Bastow: 0404 292 208; Rob Bottrill: 0418 112 018; Pat Barling: 0414 702 677

A Late Afternoon Stroll

Sunday, October 5, Everglades House and Garden, Leura

Join one of Everlglades' well informed tour guides and hear some of the history of the magnificent gardens and their original owner and their designer. This garden has been listed as 'one of the top 10 gardens to visit before you die' and this is your opportunity. Light refreshments included in the price.

Cost: $25 per person

Bookings: Everglades Gardens

P: (02) 4784 1938; Elizabeth Reyswood 0418 206 899 or Sandy Luxford (02) 4784 228

"I love this place..." Photography Competition 2008
Monday 6 October, Customs House, Cirular Quay

The "I love this place..." photography competition entries will be exhibited at Customs House on World Architecture day. A selection of entries chosen by the judges, and by the National Trust will be shown.
Click here to view a selection of entries

Tulip Time

29 September - October 6, Harper's Mansion, Wilkinson Street, Berima, 10.30am-4pm

Harper’s Mansion, maze, garden, plant nursery and National Trust shop will be open during Tulip Time. Another 2,100 bulbs have recently been planted which will make the garden even more spectacular. Organised by the Friends of Harper’s Mansion.

Cost: Free to NT members or $7 for non-members. P: (02) 4877 1508

Children's Workshop - Self Portraits: drawing from the reflection

Friday, October 3, 1pm-3pm, S.H. Ervin Gallery, Observatory Hill

Pastels, pen and ink, suitable for children 5–12 years. This workshop is for students wishing to develop their objective drawing skills, and will incorporate exercises to make portraiture more approachable. Using reflective surfaces, students will produce their own self-portrait using proportion, composition, line and tone. Students will experiment with materials and form.

Cost: $33 or $30 National Trust Members

Bookings: Eleanor Venables (02) 9258 0122 or evenables@nsw.nationaltrust.org.au

Portia Geach Memorial Award

October 3 - November 9, S.H. Ervin Gallery, Observatory Hill Sydney

Sometimes referred to as the Archibald Prize for women, the Portia Geach Memorial Award is given annually "...for the best portraits painted from life of some man or woman distinguished in Art, Letters or the Sciences by any female artist resident in Australia during the twelve months preceeding the closing date for entries".

See the S.H. Ervin Gallery page for more information

Claire Roche: A Veil Between Two Worlds
Friday 3 October and Saturday 4 October 7.30pm, Old Government House Parramatta

Well-known Irish harpist/singer Claire Roche has strung together another musical tour of Australia that will see her play at four National Trust properties in October 2008.
Her Veil between Two Worlds tour will include popular Irish ballads and dance tunes, songs sung in Gaelic, poems by W.B. Yeats set to music and Roche’s original songs for harp.
Click here to read more

Genius in the Genes: The Lindsay Family

Norman Lindsay Gallery, Faulconbridge - Until 30 September

This exhibition at Norman Lindsay Gallery, Faulconbridge, highlights the connections between Norman Lindsay and his family and friends. Includes works by Daryl, Lionel, Ruby, Percy, Jack, Jane, Rose and others in this clever family.
P: 02 4751 1067.
Click here for more information about the Gallery.
Image: The Lute Player, Norman Lindsay, Oil

Nicholas Pappas Corporate Breakfast - 1st October 2008
Nicholas Pappas will be speaking on “Tribal loyalties and media interests – are they compatible in Australian sport?” at the Queen Victoria Building, Wednesday 1st October. Nicholas Pappas is a Sydney solicitor and also the current Chairman of the South Sydney Rabbitohs Rugby League Football Club. This event has been cancelled.
Click here to read more

Yin-Yang: China in Australia

Friday 8 August - Sunday 28 September

S.H. Ervin Gallery, Observatory Hill, Sydney

Yin-Yang: China in Australia is an exhibition examining the
cross-cultural interaction between China and Australia. Presented by the National Trust S.H. Ervin Gallery and curated by Joanna Capon and Dr Zeny Edwards, the exhibition explores the important contribution of the Chinese people in the shaping of Australia. It is a timely examination of the engagement between the two cultures and coincides with the Olympic Games in Beijing.
Click here for more information on special events!

Burradoo House and Garden Inspection Day

Thursday, September 25, 10am-4pm, Burradoo House

Southern Highlands Branch (formally Berrima District Branch) are having a House and Garden Inspection Day. We will be visiting four very
architecturally diverse and beautiful houses including a Peter Fudge
garden in Burradoo.

Cost: $40 or $30 NT members.
Bookings: Sue Maude (02) 4861 5753 after 5pm or send a cheque/money order with your details and phone number to PO Box 491, Bowral 2576.

“I LOVE THIS PLACE …” National Trust of Australia (NSW) Photography Competition 2008 supported by the NSW Architects Registration Board with radio partner ABC Local Radio

Opens 30 June, closes midnight 24 August

We’re asking the community to pick up their cameras to reflect on the built environment and sense of place and be in the running to win $2,000 cash or $1,500 worth of photographic equipment from leading camera specialists Georges.

Click here for more information

NSW Architects Registration Board

Sense of Place Conference - Monday 22 September

This year's Conservation Conference has community group representatives putting their views about those special places that have historical and cultural significance to their communities.
The conference will be held in the Annie Wyatt Room, National Trust Centre on Monday 22 September from 9am - 5pm.
Make a booking
Click here for more information

Chateaux, gardens and picturesque sites in the Loire Valley and Brittany, France

September 15 - September 29, 2008

The Wildflowers and Wine Regions of Western Australia

September 15 - September 26, 2008

Long Reef Aquatic Reserve Walking Tour

Tuesday September 16, Meet outside Long Reef Golf Club

Our walking tour on 5 June was cancelled due to the weather and there are now a few vacancies for the rescheduled walk. Includes guided walk and afternoon tea.
Cost: $30
Bookings: Debbie Loughnan (02) 9997 5949 or 0419 141 933

Event Time: 1.15pm-4pm

A day of photography at Everglades Gardens

Thursday, September 18, Everglades Gardens

A wonderful opportunity for novice photographers of all ages to learn basic photography skills with an expert photography teacher. Everglades will be at its peak with 13 acres of beautifully landscaped garden to explore and photograph. Includes morning tea and a light lunch. Places are limited.

Cost: $45.
Bookings: Everglades Gardens (02) 4784 1938,
Elizabeth Reyswood 0418 206 899 or Sandy Luxford (02) 4784 2280.

A Ghostly Night

Friday, September 19, Old Government House

Explore this 205-year-old Georgian mansion by candlelight and hear tales of strange incidents and psychic encounters in this property, which has so much to tell about Australia’s past. Refreshments and supper included.
Cost: $25, due 14 days in advance.
Bookings: (02) 9635 8149 or 0415 187 402 or visit www.friendsofogh.com. Cheques to ‘National Trust (NSW)’, Friends of OGH, PO Box 431 Parramatta 2124.

MASTER CLASS CHINESE BRUSH PAINTING

Saturday, September 20, S.H. Ervin Gallery, 10am-3pm

Yin-Yang: China in Australia
MASTER CLASS CHINESE BRUSH PAINTING
with artist Franz (Chi Lik) Cheung

Morning session - Basic Chinese calligraphy
Afternoon session – Spring Plum Flower ink painting

Mr. Chi Lik Cheung was born in Hong Kong & completed his Masters Degree (MSA) from Sydney College of Arts in 2006. He is a practicing artist and currently a tutor of Chinese brush art at Macquarie University. Franz (Chi Lik) Cheung is the president of the Australian Oriental Calligraphy Society and guest tutor at the AGNSW. He specialises in ink painting, calligraphy and seal carving and also examines cultural history in scripts and artefacts, investigating the role of classical arts in contemporary daily life.

Cost: $95 / $85 National Trust Members
Cost includes materials, lunch, tuition & entry to Yin Yang: China in Australia
All ages and levels, beginners to advanced welcome.
Numbers strictly limited.

Cirquinox comes to Norman Lindsay Gallery

Sunday, September 21, Norman Lindsay Gallery

Talk on Banjo Patterson

Sunday, September 21, Vienna Cottage, 38 Alexandra Street, Hunters Hill, 2pm-4pm

Greg Blaxell, local historian and author, will speak on the subject of Banjo Patterson. Patterson spent some of the early years of his life with his grandmother in the cottage that now bears his name in Punt Road, Gladesville. Refreshments will be served.

Cost: $12 or $10 concession.
P: (02) 9817 2510.

Reliance Lunch Cruise on the Lane Cove River

Sunday, September 21, 12.30pm, Depart from Commissioners’ Steps, Circular Quay

Join the After Hours Committee on the ever popular Reliance. Cruise under the Harbour Bridge and up the Lane Cove River on this restored 1919 launch (ex Hawkesbury mail boat). Learn the history of the river, indulge in good food and wine, pleasant company, good music, sea shanties and tales of the sea. Places are limited.
Cost: $65.

Bookings: Ticket Application Sheet.

P: Tony Bastow: 0404 292 208; Ron Bottrill: 0418 112 018; Pat Barling: 0414 702 677.

Coach Tour Forbes Weekend

Friday-Sunday, 12-14 September, Forbes, Departs 9am

Departs 9am, Friday 12 September from the corner of York and Margaret Streets, City. Returns Sunday evening approximately 8pm. Cost (all inclusive) covers accomodation at The Plainsman Comfort Inn, Forbes.

Cost
Members (twin share) - $465
Friends (twin share) - $490
Members (single) - $565
Friends (single) - $590
NB. All cancellations must be made three weeks prior to departure.
Enquiries for coach only: Virgina Pearson-Smith (02) 9519 2343 or (Friday 12 September only) 0419 146 265

Ph: (02) 6852 2466; 2 dinners, B&B 2 nights, 2 lunches and inspection tickets.

Spring Book Fair

Saturday, 13 September, S.H. Ervin Gallery, Observatory Hill, 10am-4pm

The annual Spring Book Fair is on again with thousands of books at bargain prices. There’s sure to be something for everyone including arts, history, travel, biographies, fiction and lifestyle books. Come along and enjoy the fair and take home a treasure.
P: (02) 9258 0123

Click here to download an information flyer

Camellia Time Open Weekend

Saturday-Sunday, 13-14 September, Eryldene, 17 McIntosh Street Gordon, 10am-4pm

Eryldene’s significant collection of camellias comes into bloom, providing a unique reference of living specimens. Enjoy the gardens of Eryldene at their best.

P: (02) 9498 2271

Women's Committee Forbes Weekend House Inspection

Saturday-Sunday, 13-14 September, Forbes

Following the discovery of a route across the Blue Mountains in 1813, Surveyor George Evans located a west-flowing river in 1815 which he called the Lachlan. Following Evans' track, in 1817 Surveyor General Oxley traced the course of the Lachlan through the present sites of Cowra and Forbes until his progress was halted by extensive swamps.

In 1835 (a dry year), anticipating an inland sea, Surveyor General Mitchell found fertile plains on the site of Oxley's swamps - and large herds of unregistered cattle. The age of the squatter had begun.

Discovery of gold on the Lachlan (1861), followed by many years of wool supremacy brought much wealth to the district. Today many handsome private homes and imposing public buildings which reflect the prosperity of the district in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries have been carefully preserved. They give the lonely riverside township of Forbes an enduring link with its past, while providing a focus for the surrounding district, now richly agricultural with pastoral industries thriving on the riverland.

P: (02) 9258 0123

Bumper Book Sale

Saturday 6 September 2008, 12-4pm, Woodford Academy

Books, tapes, CDs, white elephant stall, jams and preserves, and a sausage sizzle to sustain you while you browse the books.

P: Harry (02) 4784 1938

SIGNATURE PRINTS STUDIO TOURS - Creating Broadhurst
in conjunction with the exhibition Yin-Yang: China in Australia

Thursday 4 September 2pm

Studio tours to be conducted by Helen Lennie, co-owner of Signature Prints Studio

Where: Signature Prints showroom and print studio
(includes refreshments - morning or afternoon tea)

Address: Unit 2/3 Hayes Rd; Rosebery, Sydney, NSW 2018 www.signatureprints.com.au

Bookings essential – limited places available.
Please phone: (02) 9258 0122 or email evenables@nsw.nationaltrust.org.au

Cost: $40 National Trust members/ $45 Full

Click here to download a booking form

'The Priory' Talk by Robyn Christie

Friday August 29, 7.30pm - All Saints Anglican Church, Ferry St, Hunters Hill

Enjoy an organ and piano recital by Robin Ruys, Minister for Music, followed with an illustrated talk by National Trust Board member, Robyn Christie. Robyn will discuss her recent heritage study of 'The Priory' for the council. Supper will be served. Organised by Vienna Cottage Committee.

Event Cost: $20 or $15 concession
P: (02) 9817 2510 or (02) 9449 2020

Florence Broadhurst – Inspiration, design & legacy
in conjunction with the exhibition Yin-Yang: China in Australia

Monday 1 September 5.30pm, S.H. Ervin Gallery

Q&A with Helen O’Neill, author of ‘Florence Broadhurst, Her Secret and Extraordinary Lives’ and David Lennie, CEO of Signature Prints, custodians of the Florence Broadhurst design library.

Exhibition viewing from 5.30pm Refreshments 6pm, Session commences 6.30pm

Cost: $50 National Trust members/$55 Full 
Bookings: 9258 0122 or evenables@nsw.nationaltrust.org.au
Click here to download a booking form

Pamela Griffith - Orientalism: An Australian Artist's Perspective

August 7-28, Tuesday - Sunday 11am-4pm - Now open until 28th August!
Annie Wyatt Room, National Trust Centre

Timed to coincide with the Beijing Olympics, internationally renowned artist Pamela Griffith’s exhibition, Orientalism: An Australian Artist’s Perspective, features Asian limited edition relief prints exploring the symbolism of the 12 Animals of the Zodiac.

Pamela carves the print blocks from wood in a style reminiscent of traditional Chinese art. The exhibition also includes a suite of coloured etchings based on the changing seasons and a series of dramatic Chinese inspired works combining gold and silver leaf with rich oils. A selection of her tools and materials used in printmaking will also be displayed.

Cost: Free Entry

P: (02) 9258 0123

Click here for more information

Cavalcade of Fashion

Saturday August 23, 2pm-4pm

The Cavalcade of Fashion and History is a voluntary organisation dedicated to preserving authentic gowns and accessories from pre-colonial days up to the present. We will host a talk by members of the Cavalcade of Fashion as a pre-cursor to a parade in 2009. Includes afternoon tea.

Cost: $20 or $17 NT and Friends members due 14 days in advance

Bookings: (02) 9635 8149 or 0415 187 402, or visit www.friendsofogh.com. Cheques to 'National Trust (NSW)', Friehsd of OGH, PO Box 431 Parramatta 2124.

Saints and Sinners Walk

Sunday August 24, 1:30pm; Meet on the steps of St Mary's Cathedral

A walking tour that takes in three of Sydney's main churches - St Mary's, St James and St Stephen's. Tour these fascinating and beautiful churches - learn the history behind them and pop into one of the local pubs for some refreshments at the end of our walk.

Cost: $30

Bookings: Ticket Application Sheet
P: Tony Bastow 0404 292 208 or Pat Barling 0414 702 677

The Art of Keeping House at Eryldene

Tuesday August 19, Eryldene, 17 McIntosh Street, Gordon, 10am-4pm

Join Elaine Lawson, founding curator of Lanyon and Calthorpe's House in Canberra for an exchange of ideas and methods about keeping an old house looking beautiful, and caring for old and valuable objects. A basket lunch and refreshments included. Numbers are limited.

Bookings: (02) 9498 3301.

Event Cost: $45 including basket lunch.

A Ghostly Night

Friday 15 August, 8pm, Old Goverment House, Parramatta Park

Explore this 205-year-old Georgian mansion by candelelight and hear tales of strange incidents and psychic encounters in this property, which has so much to tell about Australia's past. Refreshments and supper included.

Bookings: (02) 9635 8149 or 0415 187 402 or visit www.friendsofogh.com .
Cheques to 'National Trust (NSW)', Friends of OGH, PO Box 431 Parramatta 2124.

Event Cost: $25, due 14 days in advance

Women's Committee Haberfield Day House Inspection

Tuesday, August 12, 10:30am-12:30pm or 1pm-3pm, Haberfield

In the early twentieth century when Sydney was outgrowing the close terrace housing of the inner suburbs, Richard Stanton planned and developed the model Garden Suburb of Haberfield. Each house designed in the prevailing Queen Anne - Federation style was set in a large block in a tree-lined street, the whole providing a pleasant suburban lifestyle.

Having suffered neglect in the mid-twentieth century, Haberfield has now been rescued and revitalised by a community which recognises the architectural merit and lifestyle pleasures of this uniquely planned suburb. In 1978, Haberfield joined Paddington, Glebe and Hunters Hill as a National Trust classified suburb. A strong resident voice backed by the Trust achieved its listing on the register of the National Estate in 1990.

Deveton 42 Kingston Street, Haberfield by courtesy of Amando Gardiman
Designed by D Wormald in 1903 for G J Hall Esq, Company Director, this was one of the first houses built in Kingston STret in the Domestic Gothic Style. It is now a large, single story family home with beautiful gardens on two sides, carefully restored to its original condition.

Milross, 9 Rodgers Avenue, Haberfield by courtesy of Mieke and Rodney Stone
A substantial liver brick Californian bungalow built in 1928 for J Williams Esq by architect J C R Mills, Milross stands on land taht was once part of the 'Bunyas' estate, the home of Richard Stanton.

Weedon, 5 Dickson Street, Haberfield by courtesy of the owners
This Federation style house was designed by architect John Spencer Stanfield in 1911 as one of his speculative homes. The interior was renovated recently to cater for the needs of a young and busy family.

Bookings: Ticket Application Sheet

Cost: Members (only): $28, Youth (12-18 years): $18

Enquiries: (02) 9363 2401

ABSTRACT EARTH: The Photography of Richard Woldendorp

20 June - 3 August, S.H. Ervin Gallery

Richard Woldendorp is a well-known and respected photographer and is acknowledged as Australia’s eminent practitioner of aerial photography.  His photographs of the environment taken from the air have established a fresh visual vocabulary for the Australian landscape.  This unique perspective reveals diverse landscapes and ancient forms, and Woldendorp’s images eloquently capture the vastness and solitude of the land from above.

This exhibition acknowledges Woldendorp’s important contribution to Australian landscape photography over the past 50 years and has been selected by eminent art critic John McDonald and photographer R. Ian Lloyd.

Image: RICHARD WOLDENDORP – Lake Hilman, WA 2007

Flinders Ranges, Lake Eyre and the Cooper

Monday 4 August - Wednesday 20 August

Richard Quilty's very memorable 17-day tour ranges from the green pastures of the Clare Valley to the stony gibber plains around Cooper Creek, reminiscent of the ill-fated journey of Bourke and Wills in 1860-1861.

This tour is by coach from Sydney, staying at Broken Hill for two nights, then exploring the Flinders Ranges and Clare Valley. We continue on to the outback through Port Augusta visiting the Wadlata Outback Centre, and continue on to Woomera, touring the copper and uranium mine at Roxby Downs before travelling to Maree on the Oodnadatta track, our base for visiting Lake Eyre.

We follow the Strzelecki track to Innamincka on the Cooper Creek to visit the Digtree, and cruise on the creek at sunset. Then it's over the rolling sandhills to Cameron's Corner, through the Sturt National Park, Tibooburra and White Cliffs, the underground opal town.

Bookings: Richard Quilty

Tour Leader: Margaret Durham (02) 9326 2963

Clover Moore Corporate Breakfast

Tuesday 5 August, The Tearoom, Queen Victoria Building

The 2008 Corporate Breakfast series is well underway. Our next guest speaker is Clover Moore MP – Lord Mayor of Sydney.

Clover Moore MP is the first popularly elected female Lord Mayor of Sydney.  An Independent, she was elected in March 2004 for a four-year term.  Ms Moore is also an Independent Member of the NSW Parliament, now serving her sixth term in the Legislative Assembly.

2008 Speech Topic: "The Sustainable Sydney 2030 Vision for Sydney's future".

Click here for more information

Birds 'n' Bugs at Wirrimbirra Sanctuary, Bargo

Sunday 3 August 10am-3pm - Wirrimbira Sanctuary, Bargo

Bug shows for the children and a beautiful display of native birds for those who don't like creepy-crawlies. Displays and activities, hot and cold food available.

Cost: Entry by donation.

P: (02) 4684 1112

Catholic Architecture in Australia Exhibition

5-25 July 11am-4pm Tuesday to Sunday, National Trust Centre

The exhibition will trace the history of ecclesiastical architecture in the Sydney region, with particular emphasis on the changing architectural styles and decorative features of Catholic churches from colonial times to the present. The exhibition is open to the public, entry by donation.

Click here for more information

Hawkesbury Farm Gate Trail Tour

Saturday 26th July

Join the Blue Mountains Branch on a whole day tour of the Hawkesbury Farm Gate Trail. Visit orchards, vegetable gardens and a winery, also the oldest church in NSW at Ebenzer and some beautiful stretches of the Hawkesbury River. Morning tea will be included. BYO lunch.

Cost: $40. Cheques made to NT Blue Mountains Branch sent to Diana Nelson, 4 Yanko Ave, Wentworth Falls, NSW 2782 with stamped self-addressed envelope.

P: Sarah Wray (02) 4739 6769

Camellias and Childhood Memories

26 Saturday & 27 Sunday July 10am-4pm - Tomago House, Tomago

Presented by the Friends of Tomago House, this event will include specimen blooms, floral displays, stalls with homemade gifts, goodies, collectibles and much more. Light refreshments will be available as well as a special raffle.

Cost: $6 or $5 concession.

Enquiries: (02) 4946 8975 or (02) 4930 1471

Camellia Time

Saturday 26th and Sunday 27 July - Eryldene, 17 McIntosh Street, Gordon

Eryldene will be open as part of Australia's Open Garden Scheme.

P: (02) 9498 2271.

July Bush Christmas at Don Bank Museum

Sunday 27 July - Don Bank Museum, 6 Napier Street, North Sydney

Join the After Hours Committee for a Bush Christmas in July at the oldest timber house in North Sydney, described as a marine villa - a rare example of an early timber slab house. Enjoy tales from our storyteller and poems from Robert our bush poet, learn the history of this most interesting house, participate in a short guided tour around the local area and indulge yourself with festive food and drink.

Cost: $35.

Bookings: Ticket Application Sheet

P: Tony Bastow 0404 292 208 or Pat Barling 0414 702 677

A Home from Home

Sunday 27 July 2pm-4pm

Geoff Swain will deliver a talk on life as a pupil at the Masonic School, Baulkham Hills, in the 1930s. Refreshments will be served. Organised by Vienna Cottage.

Cost: $10 or $12 concession.

P: (02) 9817 2510 or 9817 5632

Fashion Retrospective 1850s to 1980s

NEW DATE 18 July Friday 7.30pm - Yass Soldiers Club, Meehan Street, Yass

A fashion parade with a difference! This private collection of 'fashion fro the ages' is one of the largest and most interesting ranges of iconic clothing to be seen in a very long time and is certainly not to be missed. Presented by the Friends of Cooma Cottage.

For more information click here

Cost: $25 includes entry and canapes.

Bookings: Helen Johnston (02) 6226 3665; Bimbi Turner (02) 6227 6182; or Corrine Chalmers (02) 6226 5428

A Ghostly Night

Friday 18 July, Old Government House, Parramatta Park

Explore this 205-year-old Georgian mansion by candlelight and hear tales of strange incidents and psychic encounters in this property, which has so much to tell about Australia's past. Refreshments and supper included.

Cost: $25, due 14 days in advance.

Bookings: (02) 9635 8149 or 0415 187 402, or visit www.friendsofogh.com. Cheques to 'National Trust (NSW)', Friends of OGH, PO Box 431 Parramatta 2124.

Children's Special Tour of Old Government House

Friday 18th July & Saturday 19th July, 11am-12pm, Old Government House

Suitable for children ages 5-12. Children will be taken through Old Government House on a special tour. Explore Australia’s oldest public building, write on a slate in a re-created 1800s classroom, learn about period dress and the lifestyles of our early Governors. Not suitable for children under 5.

Cost: Children $5.00.

Bookings Essential. Call (02) 9635 5655, (02) 9635 8149 or e-mail exfarm@bigpond.net.au

Cross Stitch

Wednesday 16th July, Session 1: 11am-12.30pm, Experiment Farm Cottage

Suitable for all ages. Grandmas, Aunties, Mums and Dads, bring a child to Experiment Farm Cottage these holidays for a special guided tour and an cross stitch session. Make your own bookmark. 

Cost: $15 per adult with 1 free child. (NT members $10) Extra Children are $6.00 each

Bookings Essential. Call (02) 9635 5655 or e-mail exfarm@bigpond.net.au

Life on a Colonial Farm

Thursday 17th July, Session 1: 10am-12.30pm, Experiment Farm Cottage

Suitable for children ages 5-12. Play yesteryear games, learn about the convict James Ruse, plant corn in the garden and have fun on a guided tour of Surgeon John Harris’s Cottage.

Cost: $10.00 per child.

Bookings Essential. Call (02) 9635 5655 or e-mail exfarm@bigpond.net.au

Winter School Holiday Art Workshops - Eco-Art Collage

17 July Thursday 1pm-3pm, S.H. Ervin Gallery

Media: collage and mixed media.

Suitable for 5-12 years old. Collage as an artistic medium was originally made famous by artists such as Matisse and Picasso. This workshop will explore the expressive medium of collage using recycled materials with photographs of Richard Woldendorp to gain inspiration for images translated into textured mixed media artworks.

For more information on this and other July workshops, click here

Cost: $33 or $30 NT members. Booking Essential.

P: (02) 9258 0122 or email: evenables@nsw.nationaltrust.org.au

Children's Special Tour of Old Government House

Friday 18th July & Saturday 19th July, 11am-12pm, Old Government House

Suitable for children ages 5-12. Children will be taken through Old Government House on a special tour. Explore Australia’s oldest public building, write on a slate in a re-created 1800s classroom, learn about period dress and the lifestyles of our early Governors. Not suitable for children under 5.

Cost: Children $5.00.

Bookings Essential. Call (02) 9635 5655, (02) 9635 8149 or e-mail exfarm@bigpond.net.au

Winter School Holiday Art Workshops - Mapping the Hill

11 July Friday 1pm-3pm, S.H. Ervin Gallery

Media: drawing and mixed media.

Suitable for 5-12 years old. This fun art making workshop for children will observe the surrounds of Observatory Hill, Sydney Harbour and The Rocks. Children will participate in a series of art making and orienteering experiences to create their own unique aerial map. Stories about the historical significance of the site will also be presented.

For more information on this and other July workshops, click here

Cost: $33 or $30 NT members. Booking Essential.

P: (02) 9258 0122 or email: evenables@nsw.nationaltrust.org.au

Camelia Time

12 Saturday and 13 Sunday July, 10am-4pm, Eryldene 16 McIntosh Street Gordon

Eryldene's significant collection of camellias comes into bloom, providing a unique reference of living specimens. Enjoy the gardens of Eryldene at their best.

P: (02) 9498 2271

Slates and Chamberpots

Friday 11th July, 1pm-2.30pm, Old Government House,

Suitable for all ages 5+. Visit Old Government House and participate in the old school days. Learn the school rules, etiquette, arithmetic, spelling and currency from Miss Johnson in the recreated 1800s classroom, followed by a tour of the oldest public building in Australia. This is a family event and children must be accompanied by an adult. Not suitable for children under 5.

Cost: $15.00 per adult (NT members $10.00) with one accompanying child free, extra children 5-12 years $5.00

Bookings Essential. Call (02) 9635 5655, (02) 9635 8149 or e-mail exfarm@bigpond.net.au

A Touch of Bells at Dusk

11 July, Friday 5-8pm St Mary's Cathedral

A specially commissioned ‘touch of bells’ will ring for the first time in Australia at a special event to celebrate World Youth Day. This special ‘touch of bells’ will be rung to celebrate the visit of His Holiness Pope Benedict to Sydney.

Click here for more information

Winter School Holiday Art Workshops - Abstract Painting

10 July - Thursday 1pm to 3pm; National Trust S.H. Ervin Gallery, Observatory Hill

Media: Acrylic on canvas. Suitable for 7-14 years old.

Using simple objects and a still life as the starting point, children will develop a unique abstract composition and create their own expressive painting. Concepts such as colour, form, line, texture pattern and shape will be explored using acrylic on canvas.

For more information on this and other July workshops, click here

Cost: $33 or $30 NT members. Booking Essential.

P: (02) 9258 0122 or email: evenables@nsw.nationaltrust.org.au

Christmas in July

5 July - Saturday 7pm

Enjoy a winter Christmas in the beautiful bushland surrounds of Wirrimbirra. Traditional Christmas dinner, lots of fun and prizes, and Santa will be calling in.

Cost: $25 adults, $10 children under 13. Bookings essential.

P: (02) 4684 1112

Gala Private Collections Night at Everglades

21 June - Saturday 7pm

Artworks from the private collections of the members and friends of the Blue Mountains Branch will be on display in the house at Everglades, while a champagne supper is served. The raffle of the Norman Lindsay reproduction vase will be drawn during the evening.

Cost: $40 Cheques made to NT Blue Mountains Branch sent to Diana Nelson, 4 Yanko Ave, Wentworth Falls, NSW 2782 with stamped self-addressed envelope.

P: Rhona Leach (02) 4757 2424

Gala Private Collections Night at Everglades

21 June - Saturday 7pm

Artworks from the private collections of the members and friends of the Blue Mountains Branch will be on display in the house at Everglades, while a champagne supper is served. The raffle of the Norman Lindsay reproduction vase will be drawn during the evening.

Cost: $40 Cheques made to NT Blue Mountains Branch sent to Diana Nelson, 4 Yanko Ave, Wentworth Falls, NSW 2782 with stamped self-addressed envelope.

P: Rhona Leach (02) 4757 2424

Community, Heritage, Conservation and Design Responses - a talk

22 June - Sunday, 2pm-4pm Hunters Hill RSL, cnr Alexandra & Ady Streets

The Vienna Cottage Committee has organised a talk by local architect, Tony Coote. Tony has been involved with heritage matters with the Hunters Hill Trust and with our council's heritage committee for many years. Includes refreshments.

Cost: $12 or 10 concession.

P: (02) 9817 2510 or 9817 5632

JOIN IAN KIERNAN FOR BREAKFAST AT THE QUEEN VICTORIA BUILDING
19 June 7:30am - 9am - The Tearoom, Queen Victoria Building
The 2008 Corporate Breakfast series is well underway. Our next guest speaker is Ian Kiernan, AO. Ian Kiernan is the Founder and Chairman of Clean Up Australia and Clean Up the World – a community based organisation which aims to inspire and work with communities to clean up, fix up and conserve our environment.
Click here for more information

CANCELLED

Friday the 13th Ghost Tour

13 June - Old Government House, Parramatta Park

Explore this 205-year-old Georgian mansion by candlelight and hear tales of strange incidents and psychic encounters into his property, which has so much to tell about Australia's past. Refreshments and supper included.

Cost: $25, due 14 days in advance.

Bookings: (02) 9635 8149 or 0415 187 402 or visit Friends of Government House.

Cheques to 'National Trust (NSW)', Friends of OGH, PO Box 431 Parramatta 2124

Cazneaux at Home

14 June - Eryldene, 17 McIntosh Street, Gordon

Eryldene was popular as a subject for photographers in the 1920s and 1930s. Amongst those who were drawn to the grace and beauty of this significant property was Harold Cazneaux, who produced more than 100 photographs of the house and garden. An exhibition of the Cazneaux photographs from the Eryldene Archives, rarely displayed, will be presented. At 2pm each day a guest speaker will discuss the importance of these works to the development of modern photography.

P: (02) 9498 2271

Walking Tour of Long Reef Aquatic Reserve

5 June, 1:45pm to 4:30pm - Meet outside Long Reef Golf Club, Anza Avenue, Collaroy

Join a small guided tour on World Environment Day to explore at low tide the wonders of Long Reef Aquatic Reserve on the Northern Beaches. This interesting and leisurely walk with our scientific guide will take approximately 1.5 hrs. On our return, we will enjoy a delicious afternoon tea at the outside terrace cafe of the Long Reef Golf Club (photo ID with address required unless a member) overlooking beautiful Fisherman's Beach. Street parking is available in Anzac Avenue, Collaroy or ticket parking closer to the amenities. Buses travel from Wynyard to the Northern Beaches. Limited to 20 people.

Cost: $30

Bookings: Ticket Application Sheet

Tour Leader: Debbie Loughnan (02) 9997 5949 or 0419 141 933

Cox's Road Walk

31 May, Saturday 10am

Join the Blue Mountains Branch in a walk down the historic Cox's Road from Mt York to Hartley Vale. This is the most significant remnant of the road which Cox and his band of convicts built in 1814. The descent is quite steep in parts and you will need good walking shoes. A hot soup lunch will be provided and return bus to Mt York.

Cost: $25, Children $5. Cheques made to NT Blue Mountains Branch sent to Diana Nelson, 4 Yanko Ave, Wentworth Falls, NSW 2782 with stamped self-addressed envelope.

P: Bob Clarke (02) 4739 3692

Women's Committee Woollahra Day House Inspection

10 June 10:30am - 12:30pm or 1pm - 3pm

Once part of the extensive Cooper Estate in nineteenth century Woollahra, graced by the welcome open space of Cooper Park and so close to the CBD, the harbour shores and the eastern suburbs beaches is now one of the most sought after residential areas of Sydney. Visit Linden House, Ingleside, and 2A View Street to look at architecture with the National Trust Women's Committee.

Cost: Members (only) $28; Youth (12-18 years) $18

Bookings: Ticket Application Sheet

Enquiries: (02) 9363 2401

Women's Committee Gundagai-Jugiong Weekend House Inspections

24-25 May

Visit Gundagai and its properties, only a comfortable 4 hour drive from Sydney. Visit properties in Gundagai on Saturday the 24th of May including Kimo Station Homestead, The Old Nangus Hotel, Bidgeebong Homestead. Then the next day visit banangaroo Homestead, Tiana Park and Gunnong-Jugrawah. Lunch will be at Kimo station on Saturday, and Jugiong Hall on Sunday.

Cost: Members $50; Friends (2 only per member) $75; Youth (12-18 years) $25

Lunch on Saturday: $13.50 (Please bring rugs or chairs to picninc in the gardens)

Lunch on Sunday: $13.50

Bookings: Ticket Application Sheet

Enquiries: (02) 9363 2401

Accomodation Enquiries: Gundagai Shire Visitor & Travel Centre (02) 6944 0250

E-mail: travel@gundagai.nsw.gov.au

"Lines in the Landscape" by Fiona Davies & Patricia Prociv – Artists (Re) Interpreting History

10 May - Parramatta Park between the gate house and the front garden of Old Government House

This ephemeral public art project highlights part of Parramatta’s formal town plan at the time of Governor Hunter in 1799.

The lines mark the location of several convict cottages and gardens on the sightline from the front door of the Governor’s house leading to George Street.

The lines draw attention to the life and times of establishing European settlement in Parramatta helping us understand that the use of the space was not always as it is now.

Over time the work will fade and disappear until fragments that may be bewildering are all that remain.

Click here to see images of the work

Observing Living History

Observing Living History includes archival video footage documenting the effects of the construction of the Sydney Harbour Bridge on local residents and the green bans of the 1970s. The exhibition is sponsored by the City of Sydney, with assistance from the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority.

HERITAGE@RISK GALA DINNER
The HERITAGE@RISK Appeal at the Charity Gala Dinner at Government House on Wednesday, 21 May was a great success and helped raise much needed funds!

Click here for more information

Autumn in Highland Manor

Old Government House - Sunday 25 May, Gates open 11-4pm

Property and Event Admission price: $12 Adult, $10 Concession/NT members. Children under 12 free.

Click here for more information on Old Govnernment House

The Saucy, Sexy Twenties

Sunday 25 May, 11am

Dr Leigh Summers is back again to give a talk at Saumarez Homestead followed by lunch. Leigh is well-known for her expert knowledge of women’s costume through the ages.

Cost: $35. Booking Essential by 20 May.

P: 02 6772 3616 or E-mail: saumarez.nt@skymesh.com.au

Morpeth Coach Trip

25 May - Depart from Gordon Railway Station bus interchange (Pacific Highway side of the railway)

Join the After Hours Committee for a luxury coach trip to the historic Hunter regions of Maitland and Morpeth. The river port township of Morpeth is steeped in history with European settlement dating from the early 1800s. Highlights of the trip include visits to Grossman House, Morpeth Court House Museum and Arnott's Sourdough Bakery. A barbeque lunch will be followed by wine tasting at Wyndham Estate and a visit to the National Trust property, Dalwood.

Cost: $75

Bookings: Ticket Application Sheet

P: Tony Bastow - 0404 292 208; Ron Bottrill 0418 112 018; or Pat Barling 0414 702 677

A Ghostly Night

16 May - Old Government House, Parramatta Park

Explore this 205-year-old Georgian mansion by candlelight and hear tales of strange incidents and psychic encounters in this property, which has so much to tell about Australia's past. Refreshments and supper included.

Cost: $25, due 14 days in advance

Bookings: (02) 9635 8149 or 0415 187 402 or visit Friends of Old Government House website.

Cheques to: 'National Trust (NSW)', Friends of OGH, PO Box 431 Parramatta 2124

National Trust After Hours Events presents: Vintage Rock & Roll Dinner Dance

17 May 2008, 7:30pm-11:30pm at Gladesville RSL & Community Club Main Auditorium, 4-6 Linsley Street, Gladesville

Features dinner, an acclaimed live cover band "Fab Two", a large dance floor, music trivia with prizes, and Lucky Door and Mystery prizes.

Click here to download an information flyer

Cost: $45 - includes a Full Buffet Dinner- Roasts, sweets, coffee

Bookings: Download a booking form

Enquiries: Ron - 0418112018, Tony - 0404292208, Pat - 0414702677

Jazz & Wine Festival

17 May Saturday, gates open from 12 noon - Norman Lindsay Gallery, Faulconbridge

The Friends of the Norman Lindsay Gallery present this popular afternoon festival in the gardens. An all weather event where everyone receives a free etched wine glass to sample the premium wines on offer and entry to the gallery is included in the ticket price. This afternoon promises the best live jazz entertainment performed by the Babe Magnets, and the very popular no reserve auction. Bring along your friends and family to enjoy the atmosphere. Food, refreshments and coffee available.

Cost: Friends and NT members $25. Bookings are essential.

P: (02) 4751 1067

Wildlife Fair

18 May 10am to 3pm - Wirrimbirra Sanctuary, Bargo

Native wildlife shows with lots of hands-on opportunities for young and old, displays and activities, plenty of food available.

Entry by donation.

P: (02) 4684 1112

The Wildlife Fair scheduled for Sunday 18 May has been postponed due to the unavailability of a professional presenter for the event. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience and will advise as soon as another date can be organised. Please visit the Wirrimbirra website for further updates.

'Hawkesbury Stone; houses, churches and cherubs' Self-Drive Tour

18 May 10am to 4:30pm - National Trust Hawkesbury Branch

Join us as we inspect the Hawkesbury's nineteenth century stone houses and the elegant stone Fiaschi Winery. See the works and homes of legendary masons, the Stephens family, around Sackville and Ebenezer, and inspect the exquisitely decorated stone home of George Robertson and Co in Windsor. See the site of the mason-yard where Robertson and John O'Kelly worked, with examples of their delicate cherub and floral grave-markers. Finally, a visit to another stoneb uilding, Ebenezer Church (1809) the earliest in Australia still in use, ant to Tizzana Winery. BYO picnic lunch, or home-cooked meals can be purchased with prior booking

Cost: $25 per person.

Bookings: with cheque to National Trust Hawkesbury Branch, PO Box 737 Richmond 2753. Please send a self-addressed envelope and stamp for receipt and information.

P: (02) 4573 1381

Gunya, Nowey, Bangalle by Keith Smith

18 May 2pm to 4pm - Hunters Hill RSL, cnr Alexandra & Ady Streets

Since the theme of this year's festival is "Our Place" it seems appropriate that there shiould be a talk about Aboriginals of the Sydney and Parramatta region. Keith Vincent Smith isa PhD student at Macquarie University. He is the author of two books, and a co-curator of an exhibition at the Mitchell Library. He will speak about and illustrate Aboriginal bark huts, canoes and baskets of the region. The talk will be followed by refreshments. Organised by Vienna Cottage.

Cost: $12 or $10 concession.

P: (02) 9817 2510 or 9817 5632

Walking Tour of Glebe

13 May, 10am - Meet at corner of Glebe Point Rd a to see the vision of its planners.

Join us for a walking tour of one of Sydney's oldest and most historic suburbs. Walk through the Toxteth Estate which serve lunch if you want to stay on after the walk is over. Learn something of the history of several other of the grand old houses which have been saved around Glebe Point. The walk is gently undulating and will take between two to three hours according to pace, which is designed to be very moderate. You will need sound walking shoes and perhaps an umbrella (rain or shine). There are many delightful restaurants which serve lunch if you watn to stay on after the walk is over.

Cost: $25

Bookings: Ticket Application Sheet

Contact: Carole McFadden (02) 9498 1612

Biodynamics and Sustainability at Everglades

10 May - Everglades Gardens, Leura

Join us at Everglades as we start the conversion to biodynamic practices to make our garden sustainable. Information, Talks, and books on the subject will be available. Refreshments are avilable from our cafe or byo picnic lunch. Entry includes access to 13 acres of beautiful gardens and parkland.

Cost: $15

Phone: (02) 4784 1938

Mother's Day Weekend

10-11 May - Eryldene, 17 Mcintosh Street, Gordon

Indulgent celebratory tea parties served on fine china and embroidered linen in Professor Waterhouse's renowned camelia garden. Guest speakers will reawaken memories of The Linen Cupboard.

Cost: entry $7, $5 concession. Celebratory tea: $16

Bookings: Essential

Phone: (02) 9498 3301 or visit the Eryldene Website

Southern Highlands Weekend

3-4 May

Morning tea in Picton for a guided viewing of historic sights, including Jarvisfield - the Antill home, railway buildings and an Edmund Blacket Church. Lunch in Berrima, visiting Harper's mansion, the 1830's National Trust townhouse. A little time for shopping, then overnight at the new Springs Resort Motel at Mittagong. Onto Bowral fora historic house or garden visit and to the Soutern Highslands Winery for a taste tour and lunch in the restaurant with lovely rural views.

Cost: $345 per person; $70 single supplement.

Phone: Diana (02) 4757 1033 or Sarah (02) 4739 6797

Dangar Island Historical Day Tour

30 April, 9:45am to 5:00pm - Meet at the Hawkesbury River Railway Station at Brooklyn

Travel by ferry to Dangar Island, a tiny island in the Hawkesbury which has a rich and long history. Join the president of the Dangar Island Historical Society on an extensive tour. Includes morning tea and a delicious buffet lunch on the island.

Cost: $55 members and friends

Bookings: Ticket Application Sheet

Tour Leader: Suzy Greene (02) 4332 2032 or 0419 183 007

Led Zeppelin photos set to rock after 35 years'
The Led Zeppelin World Tour is an exhibition of documentary photographs and contemporary artworks.  
Rarely-seen images by rock photographer Ted Harvey documenting Led Zeppelin’s 1972 Sydney concert will be feature in this exhibition. The exhibition also presents responses from contemporary artists Adam Cullen, Nicholas Harding, Geoff Harvey, Euan Macleod, Lucille Martin, Alan Jones, Craig Waddell, Chris O’Doherty (aka Reg Mombassa), Janice Raynor and Gareth Sansom.  This exhibition supports RockPhotoAid.com – a charity helping children who live in extreme poverty in Brazil. 

Click here for more

Poignant exhibition of Sydney’s disappearing industrial heritage to go on display at National Trust Centre
1-14 December, 2007

Well-known Sydney artist Jane Bennett will be exhibiting her latest show Trains, Cranes & Ships: Eveleigh Railway Workshops and the Hungry Mile at the National Trust Centre from 1-14 December, 2007. Jane’s most recent paintings focus on the Eveleigh Railway Workshops in Redfern, the Hammerhead Crane at Garden Island and the Hungry Mile at East Darling Harbour.

National Trust Lecture 2007 with Peter Fitzsimons
The lecture is a focal point for contemporary and critical public debate on  heritage, architecture, conservation, environmental and cultural issues. This fascinating talk is a not to be missed opportunity to see Peter Fitzsimons live, talking about the places and stories in Australia that are important to him.

Click here for more information
Click here to download an RSVP slip

S.H Ervin Gallery presents: 2007 The Year in Art
10 November - 16 December

S.H. Ervin Gallery’s The Year in Art is establishing a reputation as one of the ‘must see’ annual Sydney exhibitions. Now in its sixth year, The Year in Art presents a unique opportunity to revisit highlights and innovations from the Sydney arts scene presented for public viewing during the year.

Puppets and paintings to take their place at Woodford Academy

The National Trust’s Woodford Academy will be the setting for a magical exhibition starting next weekend.

‘Shakespeare’s Netherworld’ features beautiful textiles, fine arts and puppets to be staged at the historic 1830s building from 10 November to 9 December 2007. Click here for more.

Have yourself a merry little Christmas… at the Lindesay Christmas Gift & Antique Fair<